Starbucks arrests show what respect for authority looks like

With the current politically charged climate, any issue of racial discrimination risks new rounds of protests.

With the unjust arrest of two black men in a Philadelphia Starbucks store on April 12, the worms were let out of the can once again.

However, while there is broad criticism of the franchise for such a drastic and unnecessary measure, there is little recognition of the way these two men handled themselves.

These men submitted to the authority of the police. They went with them, willingly, in handcuffs.

They were not violent. They were not loud or abusive. They quietly took their lot and followed the law.

Regardless of political affiliation or opinion on the racism of the police, they still represent the legal authority of the state. Their job calls for them to be first responders to situations where lives are on the line.

This does not excuse corrupt behavior. However, there is never an excuse to ignore or misuse the police. To do so only guarantees that you will have legitimate charges against you.

The two mens' choice to go peacefully means their vindication is fully justified. While the police could have used more discretion, they were only doing their jobs.